Hepatitis A; Hepatitis B Vaccine injection

What is this medicine?

HEPATITIS A VACCINE; HEPATITIS B VACCINE (hep uh TAHY tis A vak SEEN; hep uh TAHY tis B vak SEEN) is a vaccine to protect from an infection with the hepatitis A and B virus. This vaccine does not contain the live viruses. It will not cause a hepatitis infection.

How should I use this medicine?

This vaccine is for injection into a muscle. It is given by a health care professional.

A copy of Vaccine Information Statements will be given before each vaccination. Read this sheet carefully each time. The sheet may change frequently.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

breathing problems

confused, irritated

fast, irregular heartbeat

flu-like syndrome

numb, tingling pain

seizures

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

What may interact with this medicine?

What if I miss a dose?

It is important not to miss your dose. Call your doctor or health care professional if you are unable to keep an appointment.

Where should I keep my medicine?

This drug is given in a hospital or clinic and will not be stored at home.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

bleeding disorder

fever or infection

heart disease

immune system problems

an unusual or allergic reaction to hepatitis A or B vaccine, neomycin, yeast, thimerosal, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

pregnant or trying to get pregnant

breast-feeding

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

See your health care provider for all shots of this vaccine as directed. You must have 3 to 4 shots of this vaccine for protection from hepatitis A and B infection. Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious or unusual side effects after getting this vaccine.